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Holiday with a Twist
After a messy breakup, Leigh Holloway is ready to start her life over. Until her parents put the family home on the market and call her back for one final, memory-making Christmas. The last thing she wants to do is deprive her mom of the perfect holiday, so she'll lie her way through the visit and worry about her future in the New Year. Too bad the only bar in town is owned by a guy she seriously wronged in high school.
Leigh's best friend broke Croy Dawson's heart, and Croy knows it was Leigh's fault. They've never liked each other, but Croy isn't cruel: he'd never turn away a pretty woman in need of some family-Christmas fortification. He doesn't expect her to drink just enough candy-cane martinis to tell him her secrets—and he definitely doesn't expect to get caught up in her holiday madness.
Despite the surprising love and laughter, Croy and Leigh can't escape the truth: he can't walk away from his family obligations and she has a life and career to reboot. But anything is possible if your holiday comes with a twist…
Leigh's best friend broke Croy Dawson's heart, and Croy knows it was Leigh's fault. They've never liked each other, but Croy isn't cruel: he'd never turn away a pretty woman in need of some family-Christmas fortification. He doesn't expect her to drink just enough candy-cane martinis to tell him her secrets—and he definitely doesn't expect to get caught up in her holiday madness.
Despite the surprising love and laughter, Croy and Leigh can't escape the truth: he can't walk away from his family obligations and she has a life and career to reboot. But anything is possible if your holiday comes with a twist…
92 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 21, 2016
31 people are currently reading
426 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Stacey
145 books2,640 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shannon Stacey lives with her husband and two sons in New England, where her favorite activities are writing romance and really random tweets when she’s not riding her ATV. She loves mud, books, football & watching way too much TV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
May 25, 2017
4 Secret love Stars
Holiday with a Twist was a really cute, really quick read! In this little Novella we get ex best friends that parted ways badly, years later their paths cross again and there is a strong attraction between them. Croy was a charming, sweet guy. I really liked him. Leigh was likable but I felt I didn't get a really good idea of her personality. I didn't really understand her reasoning for lying to her family about her life changes. Croy and Leigh were very cute together. I also liked Croy's brother's Lucas and I really liked Leigh's sister Hope. Right now this book is a standalone novella but I am hoping the author writes books for Lucas and Hope because they intrigued me. This little holiday read was sexy, fun and gave me tons of happy feels. I would recommend it to anyone in the mood for a sweet holiday romance.
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
Holiday with a Twist was a really cute, really quick read! In this little Novella we get ex best friends that parted ways badly, years later their paths cross again and there is a strong attraction between them. Croy was a charming, sweet guy. I really liked him. Leigh was likable but I felt I didn't get a really good idea of her personality. I didn't really understand her reasoning for lying to her family about her life changes. Croy and Leigh were very cute together. I also liked Croy's brother's Lucas and I really liked Leigh's sister Hope. Right now this book is a standalone novella but I am hoping the author writes books for Lucas and Hope because they intrigued me. This little holiday read was sexy, fun and gave me tons of happy feels. I would recommend it to anyone in the mood for a sweet holiday romance.
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
December 24, 2017
4.25/5
This was a lovely and enjoyable read. I liked Croy a lot but Leigh got on my nerves at times. I didn't like that she kept lying to her family about her job and her ex-fiancé, which caused people to misunderstand Croy and think poorly of him.
Anyway, I was ok with their no-strings romance and how they kept their relationship a secret. I honestly have no problem with the fling-to-the-real-thing trope. I would have rated this book 5 stars if Leigh hadn’t come up with such a lame excuse to lie to her loved ones. And that was my only problem with this book.
Aside from that, I enjoyed reading this one and finished it in one sitting.
By the way, if holiday romance is your thing, then this novella may be right up your alley.
This was a lovely and enjoyable read. I liked Croy a lot but Leigh got on my nerves at times. I didn't like that she kept lying to her family about her job and her ex-fiancé, which caused people to misunderstand Croy and think poorly of him.
Anyway, I was ok with their no-strings romance and how they kept their relationship a secret. I honestly have no problem with the fling-to-the-real-thing trope. I would have rated this book 5 stars if Leigh hadn’t come up with such a lame excuse to lie to her loved ones. And that was my only problem with this book.
Aside from that, I enjoyed reading this one and finished it in one sitting.
By the way, if holiday romance is your thing, then this novella may be right up your alley.
November 4, 2016
3.5 stars.
Shannon Stacey brings her reader a nice festive novella between a couple who grew up together, and when Leigh returns home for the holidays, things quickly heat up between her and bar owner, Croy.
Holiday With a Twist offers up what I want from a festive read; low drama, easy read and packed with plenty of fun, romance, passion and feeling into its 90ish pages. It's fairly predictable but that didn't bother me, it was enough and I don't know if this is a one off, but if we were to have the opportunity to return to Dawson's Bar, I'd certainly be there.
Copy received courtesy of Carina via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Shannon Stacey brings her reader a nice festive novella between a couple who grew up together, and when Leigh returns home for the holidays, things quickly heat up between her and bar owner, Croy.
Holiday With a Twist offers up what I want from a festive read; low drama, easy read and packed with plenty of fun, romance, passion and feeling into its 90ish pages. It's fairly predictable but that didn't bother me, it was enough and I don't know if this is a one off, but if we were to have the opportunity to return to Dawson's Bar, I'd certainly be there.
Copy received courtesy of Carina via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
November 21, 2016
This holiday novella brings together all of Shannon Stacey's storytelling talent in a nice, sexy little bow. Family dynamics, hometown memories, personal stressors, and an unexpected romance...all in a small town atmosphere. I thought there was a surprising amount of story wrapped up in this modest, 30,000 word novella, although obviously a longer length would have allowed for a bit more investment in the characters and plot in general. But for a Christmas romance, this quick read is a winner. Check it out!
December 5, 2016
3.5 stars
Holiday with a Twist was a quick, sweet and entertaining holiday read.
Croy and Leigh were fun and easily relatable characters and the storyline kept me turning the pages.
It warmed my heart watching them fall in love and not be afraid of the strong feelings they shared.
If you're looking for a quick, sweet and romantic read over the upcoming holidays, I highly recommend Holiday with a Twist by Shannon Stacey.
*Thank you to Carina Press via NetGalley for the advance copy.*
Holiday with a Twist was a quick, sweet and entertaining holiday read.
Croy and Leigh were fun and easily relatable characters and the storyline kept me turning the pages.
It warmed my heart watching them fall in love and not be afraid of the strong feelings they shared.
If you're looking for a quick, sweet and romantic read over the upcoming holidays, I highly recommend Holiday with a Twist by Shannon Stacey.
*Thank you to Carina Press via NetGalley for the advance copy.*
edited
August 17, 2016Here's a snippet I pulled while editing:
When his lips brushed the side of her neck, Leigh closed her eyes and breathed in deeply. As the breath left her in a shaky sigh, she tilted her head to give him better access. Or maybe permission. She just knew she liked his mouth on her skin.
“All of our lives growing up together,” he said, still close enough to her neck so she felt his breath along with his words, “and I never once thought about kissing you. Then you walked into my bar after years away and kissing you is all I can think about.”
“I think about it a lot, too.” She smiled as he moved her hair further to the side so he could kiss the back of her neck. “I might have mentioned I like kissing.”
“Oh, I remember. Even if I wanted to forget, I swear I hear you say it in my dreams.”
Unable to take the teasing across her neck a second longer, Leigh turned in his arms. She tipped her head back and their eyes locked only for a second before his mouth was on hers.
She parted her lips as he kissed her the way she’d dreamed of being kissed by a man. One of his hands cupped her neck, while the other slid up into her hair. His tongue dipped, dancing over hers, and she scraped his back with her fingernails.
When his fingers tightened in her hair, she stood on her tiptoes, wanting more. His kiss grew more demanding and she surrendered to him, moaning against his mouth. She could feel his hunger for her in his touch, and she wanted him just as badly.
But when her fingers bunched in the back of his T-shirt, ready to yank it free of his jeans so she could touch his skin, she forced herself back to reality. They were in her parents’ kitchen. She was supposed to be watching TJ.
As if Croy could read her mind, or had felt her slight withdrawal, he nipped at her bottom lip and then pulled back. Leigh’s pulse was pounding and their breath sounded ragged.
And…moist.
The breathing wasn’t Croy’s, unless he was suffering from a very sudden-onset sinus infection. Looking past him, she saw the pug sitting just inside the kitchen doorway, staring at them.
“I think my sister’s dog is judging us.”
Croy turned and then chuckled at the dog’s expression. “He’s a cute little thing.”
She snorted. “I would question your taste, but since you were just kissing me, I’ll let that one go.”
“You don’t think he’s cute?”
“In a creepy, moist way, I guess he…no. I don’t think he’s cute.”
When his lips brushed the side of her neck, Leigh closed her eyes and breathed in deeply. As the breath left her in a shaky sigh, she tilted her head to give him better access. Or maybe permission. She just knew she liked his mouth on her skin.
“All of our lives growing up together,” he said, still close enough to her neck so she felt his breath along with his words, “and I never once thought about kissing you. Then you walked into my bar after years away and kissing you is all I can think about.”
“I think about it a lot, too.” She smiled as he moved her hair further to the side so he could kiss the back of her neck. “I might have mentioned I like kissing.”
“Oh, I remember. Even if I wanted to forget, I swear I hear you say it in my dreams.”
Unable to take the teasing across her neck a second longer, Leigh turned in his arms. She tipped her head back and their eyes locked only for a second before his mouth was on hers.
She parted her lips as he kissed her the way she’d dreamed of being kissed by a man. One of his hands cupped her neck, while the other slid up into her hair. His tongue dipped, dancing over hers, and she scraped his back with her fingernails.
When his fingers tightened in her hair, she stood on her tiptoes, wanting more. His kiss grew more demanding and she surrendered to him, moaning against his mouth. She could feel his hunger for her in his touch, and she wanted him just as badly.
But when her fingers bunched in the back of his T-shirt, ready to yank it free of his jeans so she could touch his skin, she forced herself back to reality. They were in her parents’ kitchen. She was supposed to be watching TJ.
As if Croy could read her mind, or had felt her slight withdrawal, he nipped at her bottom lip and then pulled back. Leigh’s pulse was pounding and their breath sounded ragged.
And…moist.
The breathing wasn’t Croy’s, unless he was suffering from a very sudden-onset sinus infection. Looking past him, she saw the pug sitting just inside the kitchen doorway, staring at them.
“I think my sister’s dog is judging us.”
Croy turned and then chuckled at the dog’s expression. “He’s a cute little thing.”
She snorted. “I would question your taste, but since you were just kissing me, I’ll let that one go.”
“You don’t think he’s cute?”
“In a creepy, moist way, I guess he…no. I don’t think he’s cute.”
November 24, 2016
Misleading blurb. It says "after a messy break up..."that never happened. The break up between h and fiancé was amicable. A mutual decision. And she decided to quit her job ( one she was very happy with btw) because she thought it would be awkward moving on working together. IMO, very immature given the circumstances. What brings me to the heroine age: 30 years old. Acting like a sulking teenager. This book has nothing Christmas-y in it besides some gift exchange and hugs on Christmas day. Just the fact her mom had to insist with her to spend 3 weeks with her family,it erased all the Christmas feeling of it. With her situation, at this time of the year, I think you would want to stay close to people who loves you. But.. to each, their own.
And her parents were in the process to move to one of those retirement condos and they wanted their daughter to sort one their things and spend a last Christmas together in the house they lived their entire lives. Is that to much to ask?? For h it appeared to be because she'd rather just go for a couple of days. Anyway: heroine jobless and no engagement anymore. Her older sister and her baby boy were living with her parents because she was in a divorce process because her husband cheated on her. And the younger sister were married to a much older man whose daughter didn't like her. Christmas feeling?? What is it exactly? You're won't find here. To add insult to injury the h decided to hide from her who's family her situation. And why?? Even if the author tried to make her look like this caring person, it had the opposite reaction from me. Imo she was a selfish prideful brat. Even if she said it was because her parents had to much in their plate while the sister divorce and their moving she didn't want to add to their troubles. But what I really felt was she didn't want them to see her as a failure and she didn't want to deal with her parents asking her to move back to her home town. So technically she didn't want to be bothered with her family's worry for her.
Then, enters the hero. I have nothing to say about him because he made zero impact as a book boy friend. He dated the heroine's bff (the 3 of them were friends) and he blamed the heroine for their breakup, up to the point they exchanged heated words ( this was just mentioned). So he was pretty upset with the heroine for a long time for suddenly see her again and have all this attraction ( other failure in the book- zero chemistry between MCs.. I couldn't feel the connection). And going back to heroine's selfishness is that the hero was right when he blamed the heroine for the bff have broken up with him. Of course in the end was the friend decision, but the heroine insisted, begged to the bff to go to college with her. She only thought about herself and never gave a second thought about what that could mean to her friends relationship. I understand in the end was the friend's decision. And if she really cared for the hero she wouldn't go or break up with him. But I just want to highlight heroine's selfishness.
So she started hanging out with hero thinking people would not notice, because everybody thought she was engaged. His family and her family started wonder, of course. And the hero asked her a couple of times to come clean to everyone but she always refused using the same lame excuse. In the end her parents found out because the ex fiancé called the house for some reason. And her parents were hurt, with a reason. For a Christmas book It didn't deliver.
My review is a mess. Sorry.
And her parents were in the process to move to one of those retirement condos and they wanted their daughter to sort one their things and spend a last Christmas together in the house they lived their entire lives. Is that to much to ask?? For h it appeared to be because she'd rather just go for a couple of days. Anyway: heroine jobless and no engagement anymore. Her older sister and her baby boy were living with her parents because she was in a divorce process because her husband cheated on her. And the younger sister were married to a much older man whose daughter didn't like her. Christmas feeling?? What is it exactly? You're won't find here. To add insult to injury the h decided to hide from her who's family her situation. And why?? Even if the author tried to make her look like this caring person, it had the opposite reaction from me. Imo she was a selfish prideful brat. Even if she said it was because her parents had to much in their plate while the sister divorce and their moving she didn't want to add to their troubles. But what I really felt was she didn't want them to see her as a failure and she didn't want to deal with her parents asking her to move back to her home town. So technically she didn't want to be bothered with her family's worry for her.
Then, enters the hero. I have nothing to say about him because he made zero impact as a book boy friend. He dated the heroine's bff (the 3 of them were friends) and he blamed the heroine for their breakup, up to the point they exchanged heated words ( this was just mentioned). So he was pretty upset with the heroine for a long time for suddenly see her again and have all this attraction ( other failure in the book- zero chemistry between MCs.. I couldn't feel the connection). And going back to heroine's selfishness is that the hero was right when he blamed the heroine for the bff have broken up with him. Of course in the end was the friend decision, but the heroine insisted, begged to the bff to go to college with her. She only thought about herself and never gave a second thought about what that could mean to her friends relationship. I understand in the end was the friend's decision. And if she really cared for the hero she wouldn't go or break up with him. But I just want to highlight heroine's selfishness.
So she started hanging out with hero thinking people would not notice, because everybody thought she was engaged. His family and her family started wonder, of course. And the hero asked her a couple of times to come clean to everyone but she always refused using the same lame excuse. In the end her parents found out because the ex fiancé called the house for some reason. And her parents were hurt, with a reason. For a Christmas book It didn't deliver.
My review is a mess. Sorry.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2016
When Leigh hears that her parents are going to sell the home she grew up in, she gets guilted into going home for three weeks over Christmas to help her parents organize and start to pack. Taking three weeks vacation time isn't hard because she just quit her job.....and broke up with her fiance. Knowing her sister has a baby and is getting divorced, and this sister is living with her parents currently, she doesn't want to stress anyone out. So she decides not to tell anyone she is unemployed and no longer with her finance. Instead she wants a drink when she arrives at her parents - and heads to the local pub.
This pub is owned by a man named Croy who went to school with Leigh many years ago. Croy and Leigh's best friend dated, but in college they broke up. Croy blamed Leigh for this break-up and there was some bad blood between them. But now many years have passed and Leigh is hoping Croy doesn't hold a grudge. Hooray for us - he doesn't. He makes Leigh a drink and asks her to tell him all her troubles. See unloads on him and drinks too many. She also may tell him how much she likes kissing.
"I really, really like kissing. I mean orgasms can be a do-it-yourself project if it comes down to that, but there's no substitute for being kissed until you can't breathe and you can't think straight, but you still stretch up on your tiptoes because you'll never stoop wanting more."
When he didn't say anything, Leigh looked up from her almost-empty glass to find Croy staring at her mouth with so much intensity she would have wondered if she had food on her llips if she'd actually eaten anything.
"Do you know what I mean?" she prompted, and then she felt a sizzle of attraction when he met her gaze with that same intensity. His eyes were so dark they were almost black. "Do you like to kiss, Croy?"
As these two hang out over Christmas, they fall for each other - but will Leigh leave and go back to her life away from her hometown??
First let me say this book ends at the 84% mark and man do I hate when books do that to me!!! And honestly, this couple could have used another 15% to really cement their HEA. I enjoyed this book - but give me 100% completion!
I'll stop complaining now because I have a lot of positive things to say about this book. I really enjoyed both Leigh and Croy. Leigh doesn't want to tell her over-stressed parents the truth about her failed relationship and job and I kind of have to agree with her. With a sister and baby living at home - there is grumpiness and stress as her parents get ready to sell their house and it came off very realistic. While this has that holiday charm, there are also bad tempers and fussy babies and it made it feel more like what a real house full of people is like rather than the fairy tale of cookies and smiles 24/7.
Croy is a sweetheart who works with his family at the pub. He has his own family to deal with, and they were a fun inclusion in the book.Their romance is easy and sexy and worked for me well.
The kissing in this book:
"All of our lives growing up together," he said, still close enough to her neck so she felt his breath along w'ith those words, "and I never once thought about kissing you. Then you walked into my bar after years away and kissing you is all I can think about."
If you want something cute and sexy, and that ends a little early *wink* check this one out.
Grade: B
This pub is owned by a man named Croy who went to school with Leigh many years ago. Croy and Leigh's best friend dated, but in college they broke up. Croy blamed Leigh for this break-up and there was some bad blood between them. But now many years have passed and Leigh is hoping Croy doesn't hold a grudge. Hooray for us - he doesn't. He makes Leigh a drink and asks her to tell him all her troubles. See unloads on him and drinks too many. She also may tell him how much she likes kissing.
"I really, really like kissing. I mean orgasms can be a do-it-yourself project if it comes down to that, but there's no substitute for being kissed until you can't breathe and you can't think straight, but you still stretch up on your tiptoes because you'll never stoop wanting more."
When he didn't say anything, Leigh looked up from her almost-empty glass to find Croy staring at her mouth with so much intensity she would have wondered if she had food on her llips if she'd actually eaten anything.
"Do you know what I mean?" she prompted, and then she felt a sizzle of attraction when he met her gaze with that same intensity. His eyes were so dark they were almost black. "Do you like to kiss, Croy?"
As these two hang out over Christmas, they fall for each other - but will Leigh leave and go back to her life away from her hometown??
First let me say this book ends at the 84% mark and man do I hate when books do that to me!!! And honestly, this couple could have used another 15% to really cement their HEA. I enjoyed this book - but give me 100% completion!
I'll stop complaining now because I have a lot of positive things to say about this book. I really enjoyed both Leigh and Croy. Leigh doesn't want to tell her over-stressed parents the truth about her failed relationship and job and I kind of have to agree with her. With a sister and baby living at home - there is grumpiness and stress as her parents get ready to sell their house and it came off very realistic. While this has that holiday charm, there are also bad tempers and fussy babies and it made it feel more like what a real house full of people is like rather than the fairy tale of cookies and smiles 24/7.
Croy is a sweetheart who works with his family at the pub. He has his own family to deal with, and they were a fun inclusion in the book.Their romance is easy and sexy and worked for me well.
The kissing in this book:
"All of our lives growing up together," he said, still close enough to her neck so she felt his breath along w'ith those words, "and I never once thought about kissing you. Then you walked into my bar after years away and kissing you is all I can think about."
If you want something cute and sexy, and that ends a little early *wink* check this one out.
Grade: B
December 16, 2023
The choices are limited when it comes to Christmas reading. You get sweet romance or cozy mystery and on the rare occasion you can find a real mystery or romantic-suspense. This one falls into the sweet romance category. This audio version performed by Samantha Cook comes with a bit of an edge, and I really liked it.
Leigh Holloway is back home for one final Christmas before their old family homestead in New Hampshire is sold. Leigh is soooo not looking forward to this. She has just broken off her engagement and quit her job and doesn't want her family to know. But she is going to make this work, even if it means opening up some old wounds.
Cray Dawson's last encounter with Leigh ended with a screaming fight. Leigh was the best friend of Croy's high school girlfriend, and he blamed Leigh for their breakup. He hasn't given her a thought in years until she walks into his family's restaurant badly in need of a drink and a little honesty.
Now, Cray is faced with a beautiful woman he has known for most of his life and an attraction that these two old friends never expected. But Leigh's life is in flux, and she just isn't sure if the feelings are real enough to upend her life in Houston for.
Leigh Holloway is back home for one final Christmas before their old family homestead in New Hampshire is sold. Leigh is soooo not looking forward to this. She has just broken off her engagement and quit her job and doesn't want her family to know. But she is going to make this work, even if it means opening up some old wounds.
Cray Dawson's last encounter with Leigh ended with a screaming fight. Leigh was the best friend of Croy's high school girlfriend, and he blamed Leigh for their breakup. He hasn't given her a thought in years until she walks into his family's restaurant badly in need of a drink and a little honesty.
Now, Cray is faced with a beautiful woman he has known for most of his life and an attraction that these two old friends never expected. But Leigh's life is in flux, and she just isn't sure if the feelings are real enough to upend her life in Houston for.
November 24, 2016
#HoHoHoRAT Sweet but could use more development.
"Holiday with a Twist" is a novella, not a full-length story, and it suffers from the problem inherent in the form, that is, it's too short to properly develop the story and the characters. It's a sweet story but a little lacking.
Leigh is back home with her parents to celebrate Christmas and to help her parents get their house ready to sell. Additionally, her siblings each have big stressors in their lives so she decides to spare everyone and make their holiday more pleasant by lying to them and not telling them about her own stressors, that she broke up with her fiance and she's unemployed. Frankly, I had trouble with that. I understand not wanting to worry her parents but the reason she gave was weak at best, and it gets weaker as the story goes along.
Leigh and Croy were childhood friends who had a falling out during college. Happily, Stacey doesn't drag that out but has them work it out like rational adults. With their history, Stacey is able to shortcut the getting to know you process, which mostly worked on the novella form but even so, parts of their relationship just moved way too fast. The speed at which things progressed and how their issues were addressed was absurd and hard for me to believe. Leigh and Croy were sweet together and I wanted things to work out for them but I wanted more meat to the story and I wanted her to be honest with her family or at least have a better reason for not telling them her news. Also, at times I was bored; despite the speed of the relationship, the story itself was sometimes slow. Still, it was a sweet and pleasant story with a happy ending and some Christmas cheer.
"Holiday with a Twist" is a novella, not a full-length story, and it suffers from the problem inherent in the form, that is, it's too short to properly develop the story and the characters. It's a sweet story but a little lacking.
Leigh is back home with her parents to celebrate Christmas and to help her parents get their house ready to sell. Additionally, her siblings each have big stressors in their lives so she decides to spare everyone and make their holiday more pleasant by lying to them and not telling them about her own stressors, that she broke up with her fiance and she's unemployed. Frankly, I had trouble with that. I understand not wanting to worry her parents but the reason she gave was weak at best, and it gets weaker as the story goes along.
Leigh and Croy were childhood friends who had a falling out during college. Happily, Stacey doesn't drag that out but has them work it out like rational adults. With their history, Stacey is able to shortcut the getting to know you process, which mostly worked on the novella form but even so, parts of their relationship just moved way too fast. The speed at which things progressed and how their issues were addressed was absurd and hard for me to believe. Leigh and Croy were sweet together and I wanted things to work out for them but I wanted more meat to the story and I wanted her to be honest with her family or at least have a better reason for not telling them her news. Also, at times I was bored; despite the speed of the relationship, the story itself was sometimes slow. Still, it was a sweet and pleasant story with a happy ending and some Christmas cheer.
November 22, 2016
Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Holiday with a Twist by Shannon Stacey reminded me very much of those Lifetime Christmas movies so many of us watch during the holiday season. There was a bit of conflict, but the magic of the season, a healthy dose of attraction and some insta-love all made this a sweet holiday romance.
While Leigh Holloway is excited to see her family for the holiday's she not excited about returning to her childhood home to help her parents pack it up for their move to a condo and she isn't thrilled about not telling them she broke off her engagement or quit her job. While she knows she should come clean with her family she doesn't want her parents to think they should postpone their move because her life is in an uproar. Needing a break from her family Leigh heads to the only establishment in her small hometown with a liquor license, Center Street Pub, owned by the Dawson family including Croy who once blamed her for his girlfriend breaking up with him.
These two had history, a lot of it nice and then one incident that was not so nice but years have passed and when they see each other again they find themselves interested and attracted. I enjoyed watching this relationship blossom as they rekindled their friendship and explored their growing attraction. While they both needed to communicate things better, I could also understand their wariness in doing so.
Overall, Holiday With a Twist was a sweet, yet sexy romance filled with laughter, tears and a whole lot of love.
ARC provided with no expectations.
Holiday with a Twist by Shannon Stacey reminded me very much of those Lifetime Christmas movies so many of us watch during the holiday season. There was a bit of conflict, but the magic of the season, a healthy dose of attraction and some insta-love all made this a sweet holiday romance.
While Leigh Holloway is excited to see her family for the holiday's she not excited about returning to her childhood home to help her parents pack it up for their move to a condo and she isn't thrilled about not telling them she broke off her engagement or quit her job. While she knows she should come clean with her family she doesn't want her parents to think they should postpone their move because her life is in an uproar. Needing a break from her family Leigh heads to the only establishment in her small hometown with a liquor license, Center Street Pub, owned by the Dawson family including Croy who once blamed her for his girlfriend breaking up with him.
These two had history, a lot of it nice and then one incident that was not so nice but years have passed and when they see each other again they find themselves interested and attracted. I enjoyed watching this relationship blossom as they rekindled their friendship and explored their growing attraction. While they both needed to communicate things better, I could also understand their wariness in doing so.
Overall, Holiday With a Twist was a sweet, yet sexy romance filled with laughter, tears and a whole lot of love.
ARC provided with no expectations.
August 25, 2017
Three and a half stars.
Leigh Holloway has come home to her parents for a few weeks over the Christmas holidays to help them clear the family home before they move to a new condominium. What her family don't know is that Leigh has broken off her engagement and (because she worked for her fiancee) resigned from her job. Leigh worries that: (1) her parents will demand she moves back home; and (2) that they will cancel their plans to move home if they find out what she has done.
Leigh's sister is in the process of getting a divorce from her cheating husband and she, her baby and their pug dog are also temporarily living with Leigh's parents. When Leigh finds out that her parents are on a diet and don't allow alcohol in the house she goes off to the only place in town that serves alcohol - the Dawson's. Croy Dawson used to date Leigh's best friend in high school, until Leigh broke them up, after the break-up Croy and Leigh had a huge row and have barely spoken since. So of course, Croy is the one behind the bar when she walks in.
This was a sweet holiday romance, I had the feeling that this was part of a series, although there is no reference to such on the Goodreads blurb - there just seem to be lots of history (eg Leigh's sisters) which is only touched on briefly.
Anyway, it's a novella so there isn't much character development and there's a bit of insta-love (balanced of course by the fact that Leigh and Croy have known each other most of their lives as friends) but overall if you are looking for a sweet holiday read this is for you.
Leigh Holloway has come home to her parents for a few weeks over the Christmas holidays to help them clear the family home before they move to a new condominium. What her family don't know is that Leigh has broken off her engagement and (because she worked for her fiancee) resigned from her job. Leigh worries that: (1) her parents will demand she moves back home; and (2) that they will cancel their plans to move home if they find out what she has done.
Leigh's sister is in the process of getting a divorce from her cheating husband and she, her baby and their pug dog are also temporarily living with Leigh's parents. When Leigh finds out that her parents are on a diet and don't allow alcohol in the house she goes off to the only place in town that serves alcohol - the Dawson's. Croy Dawson used to date Leigh's best friend in high school, until Leigh broke them up, after the break-up Croy and Leigh had a huge row and have barely spoken since. So of course, Croy is the one behind the bar when she walks in.
This was a sweet holiday romance, I had the feeling that this was part of a series, although there is no reference to such on the Goodreads blurb - there just seem to be lots of history (eg Leigh's sisters) which is only touched on briefly.
Anyway, it's a novella so there isn't much character development and there's a bit of insta-love (balanced of course by the fact that Leigh and Croy have known each other most of their lives as friends) but overall if you are looking for a sweet holiday read this is for you.
November 22, 2016
E-ARC received thanks to the publisher and Netgalley.
Also on Oh So Mellifluous!
"Old friends reconnecting and finding love? Hell yeah, sign me up!" I said as I clicked Request on Netgalley. Bonus: It's Shannon Stacey and I know from experience that her books never fail to make me feel good. Plus, the guy on the cover is cute.
What I Like
I really wish this was a full-length novel because I can't get enough of Croy and Leigh together, but at the same time I'm glad it's a novella because the story flowed and wrapped up so nicely (I make no sense, I know). Croy and Leigh had history and once they acknowledged the cause of their fallout and made peace with it and each other, the fun started. I love the whole we used to be the best of friends and now we're friends again but why can't I stop thinking about kissing you? concept, we need more of this in lit.
I also appreciate that they all behaved like adults when conflict arose because that would have been a buzzkill since this book isn't that long to begin with and unnecessary drama would have ruined that.
What I Don't Like
Nothing, really? I truly enjoyed this story, and the only reason why I don't give this a solid 4 is because I don't give 4 stars to novellas on account of their lengths. But bear it mind that this is totally a high 3 star read for me.
Overall, I love that Shannon Stacey's books are always lighthearted and entertaining. Also, THERE WILL BE A NEW KOWALSKI BOOK?! I freaked the hell out when I saw the announcement page. 2017 can't come soon enough!
Also on Oh So Mellifluous!
"Old friends reconnecting and finding love? Hell yeah, sign me up!" I said as I clicked Request on Netgalley. Bonus: It's Shannon Stacey and I know from experience that her books never fail to make me feel good. Plus, the guy on the cover is cute.
What I Like
I really wish this was a full-length novel because I can't get enough of Croy and Leigh together, but at the same time I'm glad it's a novella because the story flowed and wrapped up so nicely (I make no sense, I know). Croy and Leigh had history and once they acknowledged the cause of their fallout and made peace with it and each other, the fun started. I love the whole we used to be the best of friends and now we're friends again but why can't I stop thinking about kissing you? concept, we need more of this in lit.
I also appreciate that they all behaved like adults when conflict arose because that would have been a buzzkill since this book isn't that long to begin with and unnecessary drama would have ruined that.
What I Don't Like
Nothing, really? I truly enjoyed this story, and the only reason why I don't give this a solid 4 is because I don't give 4 stars to novellas on account of their lengths. But bear it mind that this is totally a high 3 star read for me.
Overall, I love that Shannon Stacey's books are always lighthearted and entertaining. Also, THERE WILL BE A NEW KOWALSKI BOOK?! I freaked the hell out when I saw the announcement page. 2017 can't come soon enough!
November 18, 2016
Leigh Holloway is back home for the holidays, and she’s hiding a big secret from her family. Not wanting to upset the apple cart at Christmas, Leigh hides the fact that she broke things off with her fiancé and quit her job in Houston two months ago. However, meeting up with childhood friend Croy stirs up all sorts of feelings, and now she’s trying to keep their holiday fling under wraps until she can get back to Houston and get on with her life.
Holiday with a Twist is an enjoyable holiday novella, complete with warm fuzzies and family fun. Leigh and Croy share a history, and although their friendship has been on hold for several years, I like that they fell into an easy camaraderie from that first night she walked into his bar. Ms. Stacey builds their shared past through recollection and dialogue, keeping the reader in present day while filling in the missing pieces. Falling for someone who was once a close friend gives the romance more weight and substance within the confines of the shorter space of a novella.
While the perceived need for Leigh to keep her relationship status a secret could have grown out of control, it was never overused, with her secrets unraveling before I got annoyed by her lack of honesty. Her reasons for her actions felt very real and relatable, and we all know, once a lie is out there, it’s hard to be forthright. Luckily, this is Christmas in small town New Hampshire, where everything works out as it should!
Holiday with a Twist is a wonderful holiday treat. I highly recommend curling up on the couch with a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy this sexy, sweet novella from Ms. Stacey.
My Rating: B, Liked It
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by Netgalley
Holiday with a Twist is an enjoyable holiday novella, complete with warm fuzzies and family fun. Leigh and Croy share a history, and although their friendship has been on hold for several years, I like that they fell into an easy camaraderie from that first night she walked into his bar. Ms. Stacey builds their shared past through recollection and dialogue, keeping the reader in present day while filling in the missing pieces. Falling for someone who was once a close friend gives the romance more weight and substance within the confines of the shorter space of a novella.
While the perceived need for Leigh to keep her relationship status a secret could have grown out of control, it was never overused, with her secrets unraveling before I got annoyed by her lack of honesty. Her reasons for her actions felt very real and relatable, and we all know, once a lie is out there, it’s hard to be forthright. Luckily, this is Christmas in small town New Hampshire, where everything works out as it should!
Holiday with a Twist is a wonderful holiday treat. I highly recommend curling up on the couch with a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy this sexy, sweet novella from Ms. Stacey.
My Rating: B, Liked It
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by Netgalley
November 16, 2016
If you're looking for a lighthearted, angst free, entertaining read - look no further. This one is very well written and I adored these characters. When Leigh Holloway returns home for the holidays, she keeps the fact that she has broken up with her fiance and quit her job to herself. She doesn't want to add stress to her parents shoulders right now. When the pressures of being back home get to be too much and there's no liquor in the house, Leigh has to face the one guy in town that should hate her, Croy Dawson. Luckily Croy is willing to leave the past in the past and the two quickly reunite. Only now being just friends isn't what either one wants. What starts as a secret fling soon becomes a whole lot more and maybe not as secret as they thought.
I would definitely recommend this one for a fun relaxing read.
I would definitely recommend this one for a fun relaxing read.
December 20, 2016
Leigh Holloway's life is limbo. After quitting both her fiancé and her job, Leigh heads home for the holidays to help her parents move but not telling them what's going on in her life. When she reunites with old friend Croy Dawson, she's shocked at her body's reaction to him, especially since the last time they spoke it was in anger. Leigh and Croy begin spending all their spare moments together, but hiding their blooming relationship from everyone is taking a toll on them both. It's just a fling, there's no reason to rock the boat and stress her parents out, right?
HOLIDAY WITH A TWIST is a sweet and sensual holiday romance. It wasn't my favorite read by Ms. Stacey, but I can't really pinpoint why. I think it was just rather dull, there was nothing wildly exciting or dramatic in here that kept me flipping pages furiously. That said, the book was well written and edited very nicely, and Leigh and Croy had good chemistry. The sex scenes were more sweet than erotic, but they were still decently hot. Overall there isn't anything spectacular in HOLIDAY WITH A TWIST, but it was a nice lead up to the holiday season.
Bottom Line: No OW/OM or sharing; condom use; no BDSM; no kink; no sexual assault; no murder/violence. - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
HOLIDAY WITH A TWIST is a sweet and sensual holiday romance. It wasn't my favorite read by Ms. Stacey, but I can't really pinpoint why. I think it was just rather dull, there was nothing wildly exciting or dramatic in here that kept me flipping pages furiously. That said, the book was well written and edited very nicely, and Leigh and Croy had good chemistry. The sex scenes were more sweet than erotic, but they were still decently hot. Overall there isn't anything spectacular in HOLIDAY WITH A TWIST, but it was a nice lead up to the holiday season.
Bottom Line: No OW/OM or sharing; condom use; no BDSM; no kink; no sexual assault; no murder/violence. - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
January 13, 2017
I hadn’t read a Shannon Stacey book in a while but when I saw this one I knew I had to pick it up. I’ve always enjoyed her holiday stories and this book didn’t disappoint. I breezed right through it in one sitting and it left me with all the feelings I love from a holiday read.
HOLIDAY WITH A TWIST is the right amount of sexy and sweet with plenty of small town charm. Leigh recently broke up with her fiance and quit her job in the big city but hasn’t told her family any of it. She comes back home for the holidays and reconnects with a high school friend and whom she had a big fall out with years ago.
I thought it would be more of an enemies to lovers story, but it’s actually more of a friends to lovers because the connection and friendship that was there between Leigh and Croy surfaces from the very beginning. I loved seeing the added element of attraction slowly peak in where neither of them ever thought it would develop.
Another thing that stood out to me, and in keeping with that sense of family, are the Dawson and Holloway families. Ms. Stacey managed to get me interested in the whole cast in such a quick story and I would love to read more about the Dawson brothers and get to see their HEA.
HOLIDAY WITH A TWIST is the perfect season story to curl up with on a cold winter afternoon and some hot chocolate. It’s light,, cute and uncomplicated and left me with a smile on my face.
September 25, 2016
I was looking for a light, not too angsty read when I came across this book. It was pretty much exactly what I needed when I needed it. Which makes me very happy.
I'm normally not a big fan of people keeping the type of secrets Leigh was keeping, but I could see where she was coming from here. All things considered, her fears were justified based on what she knew about her family. And with her sister already carving out a place for herself with her issues, Leigh did what she thought needed to be done.
Then we have Croy. Croy who had once been Leigh's friend and had never seen her as anything more right up until she got a little tipsy and started talking about how much she loved kissing. I loved that such a simple thing could flip a switch in him and put her on his radar in a BIG way.
Definitely sweet, these two made me grin. Especially with Leigh's not-so-stealthy attempts at trying to hide her attraction to Croy from her family. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
I'm normally not a big fan of people keeping the type of secrets Leigh was keeping, but I could see where she was coming from here. All things considered, her fears were justified based on what she knew about her family. And with her sister already carving out a place for herself with her issues, Leigh did what she thought needed to be done.
Then we have Croy. Croy who had once been Leigh's friend and had never seen her as anything more right up until she got a little tipsy and started talking about how much she loved kissing. I loved that such a simple thing could flip a switch in him and put her on his radar in a BIG way.
Definitely sweet, these two made me grin. Especially with Leigh's not-so-stealthy attempts at trying to hide her attraction to Croy from her family. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
October 18, 2016
After years away, Leigh Holloway returns home to reconnect with family and somehow meets an old friend whom she'd lost years ago because of a thoughtless act. Croy Dawson, on the other hand, has never thought of Leigh in a romantic way at all until she returns and suddenly isn't quite able to get enough of her.
At the risk of sounding like a cynical tosser, 'Holiday with a Twist' is probably what I'm starting to recognise as 'happy holiday reading' and as seasonal fiction, asks for more leeway because of the Christmas spirit for the suspension of disbelief. In essence, characters fall in love more easily and their readers, correspondingly, more inclined to believe it because of Christmas magic and the potential for new beginnings around the corner. There's a HEA where things always work out and even if it's more predictable than ever, it's a novella for those who look actively for holiday fiction - and Shannon Stacey more than delivers.
*ARC by netgalley
(always grateful, mind)
At the risk of sounding like a cynical tosser, 'Holiday with a Twist' is probably what I'm starting to recognise as 'happy holiday reading' and as seasonal fiction, asks for more leeway because of the Christmas spirit for the suspension of disbelief. In essence, characters fall in love more easily and their readers, correspondingly, more inclined to believe it because of Christmas magic and the potential for new beginnings around the corner. There's a HEA where things always work out and even if it's more predictable than ever, it's a novella for those who look actively for holiday fiction - and Shannon Stacey more than delivers.
*ARC by netgalley
(always grateful, mind)
October 1, 2018
Another entertaining listen, brought to you by Shannon Stacey and Samantha Cook.
I've officially moved from being a Shannon Stacey fan into a BIG Shannon Stacey fan, and this story is one of the reasons why. The characters are likeable and relatable, the story is entertaining and compelling, and even though the storyline got a little cliched, it wasn't overly so.
I've officially moved from being a Shannon Stacey fan into a BIG Shannon Stacey fan, and this story is one of the reasons why. The characters are likeable and relatable, the story is entertaining and compelling, and even though the storyline got a little cliched, it wasn't overly so.
November 17, 2021
Cute, simple and wonderfully cliche
December 3, 2025
3.5 stars novella. cute holiday themed romp.
November 21, 2016
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Leigh is returning home for a final family Christmas at their home before her parents sell and move into something smaller. She’s made the decision to spin a tale on her so called happy life away from home by not telling them that she’s no longer getting married or that she’s out of a job. Those things can wait until next year, for now she’s determined to put on a joyful face and celebrate Christmas with her family. But she’s going to need a bit of liquid fortification to get through this visit so she’s checking out the local bar for some time away from the constant lies she’s telling. Who could have figured that the only bar in their small town would now be owned by a man she’d once considered a friend back in high school. Right up until she’d had a part in his painful breakup with her best friend. Certain that Croy hated her, Leigh sets out to hide her discomfort behind some candy cane martinis .. many candy cane martinis.
Croy was surprised to see Leigh again, she certainly did bring back memories. But he’d long ago forgotten about that high school break up. Life moves on and that break up was probably a blessing in disguise. Yet it seems that Leigh believes she’d ruined his life forever and that he hates her… so not true. The more uncomfortable she is, the more candy cane martinis she consumes until she’s just this side of completely tipsy. And, even as a bar owner should know better, he’s finding her sweet confessions while under the influence of his fine drink making skills quite adorable, and informative.
Croy and Leigh will find that while their high school years gave them friendship, their adult years change the feelings they have into something more romantic. Trouble is Croy is firmly settled in this small town and Leigh will be restarting her life far away Someone has to believe in their relationship enough to make a life changing choice… or walk away from what might have been perfect for longer than Christmas.
Holiday With A Twist is a novella that manages to give a full novel feel to the developing romance between former friends. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a huge fan of novellas – but it takes a special touch to make a shorter story feel full of everything a full length novel gives the reader. While Leigh’s secrets weren’t really earth shattering, they were strong enough for her to put on a story for her family. Croy is strong and centered in his life. His family obligations keep him firmly in this town. No resentment, simply fact. He and Leigh have such chemistry that it’s easy for the reader to see what their future should be.. the characters take a bit longer to figure that out… as usual. *grin*
I enjoyed this one very much. It was funny in the right places and somber where necessary. Secondary characters make a story come alive for me, and I would love to learn more about some of these folks. Maybe one day they’ll have their stories told as well. If you’re looking to treat yourself this holiday season, then I’d recommend Holiday With A Twist for any reader who wants a fun, sexy story with believable characters and a solid story.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this novel. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this story.*
Leigh is returning home for a final family Christmas at their home before her parents sell and move into something smaller. She’s made the decision to spin a tale on her so called happy life away from home by not telling them that she’s no longer getting married or that she’s out of a job. Those things can wait until next year, for now she’s determined to put on a joyful face and celebrate Christmas with her family. But she’s going to need a bit of liquid fortification to get through this visit so she’s checking out the local bar for some time away from the constant lies she’s telling. Who could have figured that the only bar in their small town would now be owned by a man she’d once considered a friend back in high school. Right up until she’d had a part in his painful breakup with her best friend. Certain that Croy hated her, Leigh sets out to hide her discomfort behind some candy cane martinis .. many candy cane martinis.
Croy was surprised to see Leigh again, she certainly did bring back memories. But he’d long ago forgotten about that high school break up. Life moves on and that break up was probably a blessing in disguise. Yet it seems that Leigh believes she’d ruined his life forever and that he hates her… so not true. The more uncomfortable she is, the more candy cane martinis she consumes until she’s just this side of completely tipsy. And, even as a bar owner should know better, he’s finding her sweet confessions while under the influence of his fine drink making skills quite adorable, and informative.
Croy and Leigh will find that while their high school years gave them friendship, their adult years change the feelings they have into something more romantic. Trouble is Croy is firmly settled in this small town and Leigh will be restarting her life far away Someone has to believe in their relationship enough to make a life changing choice… or walk away from what might have been perfect for longer than Christmas.
Holiday With A Twist is a novella that manages to give a full novel feel to the developing romance between former friends. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a huge fan of novellas – but it takes a special touch to make a shorter story feel full of everything a full length novel gives the reader. While Leigh’s secrets weren’t really earth shattering, they were strong enough for her to put on a story for her family. Croy is strong and centered in his life. His family obligations keep him firmly in this town. No resentment, simply fact. He and Leigh have such chemistry that it’s easy for the reader to see what their future should be.. the characters take a bit longer to figure that out… as usual. *grin*
I enjoyed this one very much. It was funny in the right places and somber where necessary. Secondary characters make a story come alive for me, and I would love to learn more about some of these folks. Maybe one day they’ll have their stories told as well. If you’re looking to treat yourself this holiday season, then I’d recommend Holiday With A Twist for any reader who wants a fun, sexy story with believable characters and a solid story.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this novel. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this story.*
November 21, 2016
Shannon Stacy earned my respect/admiration with her Kowalski Family series, folks, so whenever I am gifted an advanced reader copy in exchange for a fair review for one of her books, I am always excited to see what romantic tale she has in store for me. With its short, but sweet, refreshingly romantic Christmas theme featuring former childhood friends who had a falling out in high school but reconnect ten years later in a somewhat predictable hometown reunion, it definitely reminded me of the Kowalski clan. Yes, that is a very good thing, my fellow romance book loving friends.
Other than Croy, his family pub bartender/part restaurant owner, having been the boyfriend of Leigh’s, the heroine, best friend in high school, I really couldn’t find anything I didn’t like about this one. No, I wasn’t overly fond of that element, especially since Croy claimed to have loved the OW, but at least it came across as mostly a non-issue as no specific past history was given featuring her. The main couple back then were just pals, btw. Together the three of them were basically like the Three Musketeers. Both are now 30 years old and soon after meeting for the first time in years quickly put their last argument behind them. In fact, I hope there are more books planned featuring HEAs for some of the sub-characters, especially Leigh’s “just had a baby, but now getting a divorce” sister. I would love to see her matched up with one of Croy’s good guy brothers.
So if you are looking for a quick, holiday backdrop, uncomplicated “can feel their heat” romantic read whose only dilemma is “should I leave or should I stay” featuring a couple of steamy scenes/very passionate kisses between two people who share a true emotional connection, you might want to consider ordering this one. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Oh, by the way, yes, there really is a Santa Claus, I mean candy cane martinis. Goodness, when I found the recipe on the internet I kind of felt like Will Farrell in the movie Elf. Seriously, I think I may have clapped my hands repeatedly in glee and mentally jumped up and down at this discovery. Thanks to Leigh’s fondness for them I plan to make my Christmas holiday a little merrier and bright by treating myself to some of that liquid goodness!
Here’s to hoping my review has been helpful in some way in giving you a little insight into this sweet, romantic read.
Title: Holiday With a Twist, Author: Shannon Stacey, Pages: NL (short novella) File size: 1933 KB, stand-alone with HEA, good guy hero, sweet romance, no cheating, no love triangle, no OW/OM drama, former childhood friends reconnect, hero used to be heroine’s best friend’s boyfriend in high school, romance safe read.
(This review is based on free advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased, fair review. No type of compensation was given to the reviewer. There is no relationship/affiliation between the reviewer and the author/publisher.)
Other than Croy, his family pub bartender/part restaurant owner, having been the boyfriend of Leigh’s, the heroine, best friend in high school, I really couldn’t find anything I didn’t like about this one. No, I wasn’t overly fond of that element, especially since Croy claimed to have loved the OW, but at least it came across as mostly a non-issue as no specific past history was given featuring her. The main couple back then were just pals, btw. Together the three of them were basically like the Three Musketeers. Both are now 30 years old and soon after meeting for the first time in years quickly put their last argument behind them. In fact, I hope there are more books planned featuring HEAs for some of the sub-characters, especially Leigh’s “just had a baby, but now getting a divorce” sister. I would love to see her matched up with one of Croy’s good guy brothers.
So if you are looking for a quick, holiday backdrop, uncomplicated “can feel their heat” romantic read whose only dilemma is “should I leave or should I stay” featuring a couple of steamy scenes/very passionate kisses between two people who share a true emotional connection, you might want to consider ordering this one. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Oh, by the way, yes, there really is a Santa Claus, I mean candy cane martinis. Goodness, when I found the recipe on the internet I kind of felt like Will Farrell in the movie Elf. Seriously, I think I may have clapped my hands repeatedly in glee and mentally jumped up and down at this discovery. Thanks to Leigh’s fondness for them I plan to make my Christmas holiday a little merrier and bright by treating myself to some of that liquid goodness!
Here’s to hoping my review has been helpful in some way in giving you a little insight into this sweet, romantic read.
Title: Holiday With a Twist, Author: Shannon Stacey, Pages: NL (short novella) File size: 1933 KB, stand-alone with HEA, good guy hero, sweet romance, no cheating, no love triangle, no OW/OM drama, former childhood friends reconnect, hero used to be heroine’s best friend’s boyfriend in high school, romance safe read.
(This review is based on free advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased, fair review. No type of compensation was given to the reviewer. There is no relationship/affiliation between the reviewer and the author/publisher.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2016
I hadn't read a Shannon Stacey book in a while but when I saw this one I knew I had to pick it up. I've always enjoyed her holiday stories and this book didn't disappoint. I breezed right through it in one sitting and it left me with all the feelings I love from a holiday read.
HOLIDAY WITH A TWIST is the right amount of sexy and sweet with plenty of small town charm. Leigh recently broke up with her fiance and quit her job in the big city but hasn't told her family any of it. She comes back home for the holidays and reconnects with a high school friend and whom she had a big fall out with years ago.
I thought it would be more of an enemies to lovers story, but it's actually more of a friends to lovers because the connection and friendship that was there between Leigh and Croy surfaces from the very beginning. I loved seeing the added element of attraction slowly peak in where neither of them ever thought it would develop.
Another thing that stood out to me, and in keeping with that sense of family, are the Dawson and Holloway families. Ms. Stacey managed to get me interested in the whole cast in such a quick story and I would love to read more about the Dawson brothers and get to see their HEA.
HOLIDAY WITH A TWIST is the perfect season story to curl up with on a cold winter afternoon and some hot chocolate. It's light,, cute and uncomplicated and left me with a smile on my face.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca
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November 14, 2016
Holiday with a Twist by Shannon Stacey is the perfect holiday romance. Stacey is an auto-read for me based on previous books because I know her writing will be fantastic, her characters will be lovable and there will be some sexy times for the couple too.
In Holiday with a Twist, Croy and Leigh find themselves reuniting once again. Friends growing up, but spending the last several years in different states, they have made peace with one another after a bad situation over a mutual friend. Leigh is back home for the holidays and unexpected to both of them; Leigh and Croy explore these foreign feelings for each other.
Stacey writes smart characters with tough choices and real conflict. Novellas can be hit or miss with me due to the length of the story but Stacey always seems to make it work. Leigh and Croy date over a three week period and in that time frame we get to be a part of their budding romance, conflict over what to do when that time is up and spend some intimate time with them. It’s a perfect blend of watching Leigh figure out what to do with her life after some big changes and the romance aspect between her and Croy.
If you are looking for a sexy holiday romance to distract you from the hustle and bustle of the season, give Holiday with a Twist a try!
In Holiday with a Twist, Croy and Leigh find themselves reuniting once again. Friends growing up, but spending the last several years in different states, they have made peace with one another after a bad situation over a mutual friend. Leigh is back home for the holidays and unexpected to both of them; Leigh and Croy explore these foreign feelings for each other.
Stacey writes smart characters with tough choices and real conflict. Novellas can be hit or miss with me due to the length of the story but Stacey always seems to make it work. Leigh and Croy date over a three week period and in that time frame we get to be a part of their budding romance, conflict over what to do when that time is up and spend some intimate time with them. It’s a perfect blend of watching Leigh figure out what to do with her life after some big changes and the romance aspect between her and Croy.
If you are looking for a sexy holiday romance to distract you from the hustle and bustle of the season, give Holiday with a Twist a try!
December 18, 2016
Holiday with a Twist was a cute, quick, holiday read. I've really enjoyed a lot of Shannon Stacey's other books and I'm also a huge fan of holiday romances, so I knew I wanted to check out this one. I didn't think it was a bad story by any means but I also don't think there was anything super memorable about this one that I will remember it in a month or so. Does that make sense?? Nothing wowed me, I guess. The characters and the story didn't have enough time to develop.
The book starts with a warning that it ends around 80% and includes an excerpt of another story. I really wish Shannon Stacey would have used that last little bit to make a stronger HEA for the two of them. Everything just felt too easy and rushed, which sometimes happens with novella length stories. I think an epilogue would have been a great way to make their story a little bit stronger.
If you are looking for a super quick holiday romance fix then this may be the book for you. Overall I think this one was just "okay" for me. I wanted just a little bit more
*I received a free copy of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. "
The book starts with a warning that it ends around 80% and includes an excerpt of another story. I really wish Shannon Stacey would have used that last little bit to make a stronger HEA for the two of them. Everything just felt too easy and rushed, which sometimes happens with novella length stories. I think an epilogue would have been a great way to make their story a little bit stronger.
If you are looking for a super quick holiday romance fix then this may be the book for you. Overall I think this one was just "okay" for me. I wanted just a little bit more
*I received a free copy of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. "
November 27, 2016
This was super fun! I don't know that I would have needed a full novel length, but this was perfect
December 4, 2016
I listened to the audio version. This novella was a fun quick read.
December 7, 2016
Cute, candy cane flavored read. Short and sweet, perfect for fans of contemporary Christmas romance novels.
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